Feds: Researcher in Wisconsin may have stolen cancer research

A researcher at the Medical College of Wisconsin is charged with espionage after prosecutors said he stole details of a cancer-fighting compound that he wanted to share with China.

Prosecutors said Hua Jun Zhao stole the compound, C-25, and data that led to its development.

A federal complaint said investigators found several hundred items related to research into C-25 on Zhao's computer. Authorities found a grant application from Zhao, written in Mandarin, claiming he discovered the compound and seeking Chinese funding to continue research.

The 42-year-old Zhao is charged with economic espionage, which carries a maximum 15 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.

"This investigation underscores the importance of the FBI's outreach to our community partners," Special Agent in Charge Teresa L. Carlson said. "The FBI will aggressively pursue those who would attempt to steal trade secrets, proprietary information or national security information."